Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is available. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any obvious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, like leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating can ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 815-933-8213. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.